New Delhi, Dec. 24 -- Amid ongoing protests by environmental activists over the new definition of Aravalli range that could lead to exploitation of the range for mining and construction projects, the central government on Wednesday announced a complete ban on the grant of any new mining leases in the Aravallis.
In a press note, the ministry clarified that the prohibition applies uniformly across the entire Aravalli landscape and is intended to preserve the integrity of the range.
"The directions are aimed at safeguarding the Aravallis as a continuous geological ridge extending from Gujarat to the National Capital Region, and at stopping all unregulated mining activities," said the Environment Ministry.
The government also said the Indian...